Julia Koch
These Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes are the perfect side dish when you want golden edges, fluffy centers, and minimal fuss. With just a few pantry staples and your air fryer, you can whip up a dish that’s both impressive and incredibly simple. They’re savory, seasoned just right, and finished with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a vibrant touch.
Whether you’re planning a casual weeknight dinner or need a reliable companion to your brunch spread, these potatoes check all the boxes. The air fryer creates that crisp texture without deep frying, making them lighter yet just as satisfying. Once you try them, they’ll likely become your go-to side.
What Kind of Potatoes Should I Use?
For the crispiest finish, go for baby Yukon gold or small red potatoes. Their waxy texture holds up well to high heat and they crisp beautifully while keeping their creamy interiors. If you’re using larger potatoes, cut them into similar-sized chunks to ensure even cooking.
Ingredients for the Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
- Baby Yukon Gold Potatoes: Ideal for their creamy insides and ability to crisp up without falling apart.
- Olive Oil: Helps the exterior turn golden and adds a rich flavor.
- Garlic Powder: For that deep savory background note without the risk of burning like fresh garlic.
- Smoked Paprika: Adds subtle warmth and enhances the color.
- Salt: Essential to draw out flavor from the potatoes.
- Fresh Ground Pepper: Balances and sharpens the overall flavor.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): Adds a pop of color and fresh finish at the end.
How To Make the Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
Step 1: Prep the Potatoes
Wash and dry the baby Yukon Gold potatoes. Slice them in half to expose more surface area for crisping. If some are larger, quarter them to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Season Well
In a large bowl, toss the potatoes with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece is well coated so every bite has maximum flavor.
Step 3: Preheat the Air Fryer
Set your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) and let it preheat for about 3 minutes. A hot air fryer ensures the potatoes start crisping up immediately.
Step 4: Cook in Batches if Needed
Place the potatoes in the air fryer basket in a single layer. Don’t overcrowd—air circulation is key for crispiness. Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through for even browning.
Step 5: Finish with Herbs
Once the potatoes are golden and crisp, transfer to a plate and sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the top. Serve immediately for the best texture.
Serving and Storing Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
These potatoes are best enjoyed straight out of the air fryer, when they’re at peak crispiness. Serve them alongside eggs for breakfast, as a dinner side with grilled meats, or even as a game-day snack with a dip like sour cream or aioli.
To store leftovers, place the cooled potatoes in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat them in the air fryer at 375°F for 5-7 minutes to bring back their crisp edges.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I keep the potatoes crispy after cooking?
Serve them immediately or keep them in a warm oven (around 200°F) uncovered until ready to eat. Avoid covering them, which traps steam and softens the texture.
Can I use other types of potatoes?
Yes, but adjust cook time. Russets need to be cut smaller and may crisp more, while red potatoes will be similar to Yukon golds.
Do I need to soak the potatoes first?
Soaking helps remove excess starch and can enhance crispiness, but it’s not essential. If you have time, a 30-minute soak in cold water followed by thorough drying improves texture.
Why did my potatoes stick to the air fryer basket?
They may not have been oiled enough or your basket needed more seasoning. Next time, ensure they’re well coated and consider a quick spray of oil on the basket.
Can I make these ahead of time?
They’re best fresh, but you can par-cook the potatoes and finish crisping them just before serving.
Want More Potato Side Dish Ideas?
You might also like the Air Fried Potato Wedges, which offer a chunkier, rustic approach to air fryer spuds. Or try the Best Mashed Potatoes Recipe if you’re leaning toward creamy comfort.
For a Southern-style table, the Slow Cooker Cracker Barrel Fried Apples make an unexpectedly sweet and tangy contrast. If you’re all about crispy textures, the Loaded Tater Tot Appetizers deliver a bite-sized, cheesy crunch.
And when you’re craving a hybrid of comfort and convenience, the Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole balances starchy richness with veggie goodness.
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If you try this recipe, I want to know what you thought! Did you use Yukon or another variety? Did you toss in extra herbs? Leave a comment and share your version. It always makes my day to hear how it went.
Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes
- Total Time: 23 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
Golden, crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, these Crispy Air Fryer Potatoes are an easy and healthier alternative to traditional fried potatoes. Perfect for any meal, they use pantry staples and cook up fast in the air fryer.
Ingredients
Baby Yukon Gold Potatoes
Olive Oil
Garlic Powder
Smoked Paprika
Salt
Fresh Ground Pepper
Fresh Parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Wash and dry the potatoes, then slice in half (or quarter if large).
- Toss in a bowl with olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
- Arrange potatoes in a single layer in the air fryer basket.
- Cook for 15-18 minutes, shaking halfway through.
- Transfer to a plate, garnish with parsley, and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 18 minutes
- Category: Appetizers
